Letter: Ducking the Gun Issue

I am greatly disappointed with the Vermont Senate for not having a debate about assault weapons and high-capacity clips. The explanation that Vermont is rural and has a history of gun ownership is simply a platitude, and voters deserve better. Yes, Vermont does have a history of gun ownership, as do I; however, assault weapons and high-ammunition clips are a diminutive part of that history. We deserve a legitimate debate about the right to own an assault weapon versus the harm that that right may pose to society. As the debate teacher and coach at Hartford High School and the co-president of the Vermont Debate and Forensic League, I tell my students that they may not like the results of a debate, but it is necessary to have the debate — otherwise, we all wallow in our own ignorance. I will accept nothing less than some kind of official political discussion on this issue. Kicking the can down the road is unacceptable when it comes to the rights and security of my students, family and fellow citizens.

To the Editor: I agree with James Dixon of Thetford (“Ducking the Gun Issue,” Feb. 6) who was disappointed that the Vermont Senate had decided not to debate banning assault weapons. The Senate should not be afraid to have this necessary discussion because Vermont’s lack of responsible gun-safety laws affects other states. I think every community in every state needs …